food IS a theme park
This might surprise you, but there is about to be MORE construction in Disney World.
Aloha, Polynesian Village Resort!
2026 is the year of growth around the Disney Resort! In the theme parks, they’re busy working away at new lands like the Walt Disney Studios, Pueblo Esperanza, Piston Peak, and more. Over at the hotels, there’s quite a bit of refurbishment going on, and Disney’s Polynesian Village is now putting on its hard hat to get in on the fun.
I’ve been going to Disney World for decades, and I LOVE Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, but there are a few reasons to avoid it in 2026.
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
This resort seems to have been plagued by years of construction. When the Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows opened in December 2024, we thought that might have been the last we saw of construction. However, that has not been the case. In 2025, construction continued here, and as of 2026, guests can still be affected by work.
There are several reasons to book a Disney World hotel, but there’s one you might want to avoid this year.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
From larger-than-life theming to next-level dining and exclusive perks like Early Theme Park Entry, Disney’s resort hotels are often just as magical as the parks themselves. But here’s the thing, even Disney hotels aren’t immune to refurbishments, and if you’re planning a trip soon, there’s one popular resort you may want to think twice about booking.
Planning a 2026 trip to Disney World is different. Between new attractions opening, lands being re-imagined, and entire areas under refurbishment, the resort is going to feel more like a construction zone than a polished theme park vacation at times.
Bay Lake Tower
That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go, but it just means where you stay matters more than usual. In a year full of closures, refurbishments, and noise disruptions, some hotels are becoming less popular with repeat visitors. Here are three Disney World hotels fans are hesitating to book in 2026, and whether they might still make sense for you.
SO much is happening right now in Disney World that it’s easy to lose track of all the construction projects. Three of Disney World’s four parks are getting new lands and expansions, while Disney World hotels are busy getting updated lobbies, rooms, and more.
©Disney
So if you’ve forgotten that Disney World is also building a brand new hotel, it’s understandable. However, we didn’t forget, and we’ve been keeping an eye out for updates. Well, now, thanks to some new photos, we can see all the progress that’s been made on this new hotel, Disney’s Lakeshore Lodge.
Disney World can feel like one giant construction project right now, but we know that with construction, big things are on the horizon.
©Disney || Tropical Americas Land coming to Animal Kingdom
In 2026, Disney World is undergoing massive construction projects in three out of the four theme parks. We have been keeping a close eye on everything that is happening so we can bring you the most important updates. Here is everything you need to know about the latest updates for each of these projects around Disney World.
Epic Universe is getting closer and closer to its first anniversary! Universal’s newest theme park was a major hit in 2025 thanks to its thrilling rides, tasty food, and detailed themeing.
Epic Universe
We were huge fans of the park, and it seems like Universal isn’t slowing down anytime soon. After noticing new permits in November 2025, construction has started at Epic Universe.
Disney’s resorts are rarely static, but the scale of updates currently underway means your next stay could feel very different — for better or worse.
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort
From lobby overhauls to full-room refurbishments, here’s what’s happening (or coming) at five Disney hotels. If your go-to resort is on this list, these changes may meaningfully affect your vibe, your photo ops, or even your reservation planning.
Our handy (and portable!) ebook guides make sure you get the best deals and can plan a vacation of a lifetime.
